Pregnancy brings joy—and fear. Fear of miscarriage. Fear of birth defects. Fear of labor pain. Fear of death. Fear of being a bad mother. This anxiety is not a failure of faith. It is an invitation to deeper trust.
The Reality of Pregnancy Fear
You are not alone in your fears. Studies suggest 15-25% of pregnant women experience significant anxiety. The reasons are understandable:
- Loss of control — Your body is doing something you cannot fully direct
- High stakes — A life is at stake (or two lives)
- Hormones — Pregnancy hormones can heighten anxiety responses
- Past trauma — Previous losses or difficult births
Faith does not immunize you from fear. Even Mary, "troubled" by the angel's greeting, experienced uncertainty. If you're struggling with sleeplessness on top of anxiety, see our guide to pregnancy insomnia in the third trimester.
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5 Prayers for Labor & Delivery
A Catholic prayer for every stage of birth. From the first contraction to holding your baby.